Requirements ascribed to the storage of the data as part of ethics approvals

Methods to ensure locating the data at a later date is simple (e.g. indexing and cataloguing)

Massey's policies on data storage and retention

Always take a risk management approach when making storage decisions. For example, if your data cannot be recreated in the event of loss, is sensitive, or must be kept long term, then quality storage is crucial. More information on what data must be kept

Digital Security and Backup

Secure your data

Ensure that the computers used in research and/or data storage have up-to-date virus protection

Use passwords to secure files and computers

Although unencrypted data is ideal for storing your data because it will make it most easily read by you and others in the future; encryption may be necessary for some sensitive data, especially if the data are being transferred over email or File Transfer Protocol (FTP)

Backup

Backup means to create additional copies of your ‘live’ or ‘working’ data, and store them in separate locations from your working data. Backing up your data is essential to avoid the risk of loss through accidental deletion, hard-drive failure, theft or damage of equipment.

Set up a regular schedule to back up your data and follow it to the best of your ability.

Network disk space allocation at Massey University

ITS offers network disk space allocations for critical research data for schools and individuals.

Network disk space is available for the duration of your study or employment at Massey University. Disk space limits are negotiable; generally, ITS allocate around 10TB per eResearch application. If you believe you will generate more than this, ITS will advise you on your options.

Data saved to Massey University’s network is:

Backed up (ITS provide a backup and recovery service across all network shares)

Portable Storage Media

Portable storage media include USB sticks, smart phones, CDs etc. Only use portable storage media as temporary storage for file transfer; for security reasons do not use portable storage media for permanent storage. ITS cannot provide support if data stored on portable media becomes corrupted or otherwise inaccessible.

External Hard Drives

External hard drives can be a good choice for backing up your data. Keep them in a relatively safe location, such as your office or at a trusted friend’s house.

Cloud Storage

Cloud storage services are storage services provided over the Internet via the provider’s servers. Be careful when storing sensitive research data on free, cloud-based storage solutions such as DropBox or GoogleDocs, as they may not meet ethical requirements. ITS cannot provide support (i.e. restore or backup) should something go wrong with data stored in external cloud services.

When entering agreements with cloud storage providers make sure you’ve addressed risks associated with security, privacy and your ability to maintain access to your data should service providers close down or change owners.

Researcher Development

Contact Us

Contact a Subject LibrarianYour first point of contact in the library for RDM guidance, training opportunities and practical support. Subject librarians also provide personal research help by email, phone, or appointment.